Chapter 7, Media in a Young Man’s Life, isn’t simply a list of what your son should or shouldn’t watch or listen to. Instead, this chapter encourages moms to teach their sons how to discern.
British novelist E.M. Forster wrote, “Spoon feeding in the long run teaches us nothing but the shape of the spoon.” If we spoon feed our sons in terms of media choices, where will they be when they leave home? What we want is to somehow teach them to discern between wise and unwise choices.
Reading is the perfect place to start. When we discern, we determine the true nature of something. When we read, we cut to the heart of the teaching. Why does the character say that? What does he mean? Why is he going there? If we can teach our sons to think about the worth of a story or its characters or its lessons, when they’re faced with media choices, they will likely apply the same measuring stick. You say your son is a reluctant reader? This chapter also includes some hints from Sigmund Brouwer, author of high-interest series for boys.
Chapter 7 discusses early exposure to media, how to use the news as a family, and how to consider the family mix. Even though the book doesn’t list titles your sons should and shouldn’t see, I came across some great lists as I did research for the book. In the appendix, there’s a section called Reading, Media and Technology that will give you some very specific ideas (including titles) that can provide entertainment and teaching moments for your boys.
On Thursday, I’ll be previewing Chapter 8, Growing Respect. This chapter was originally entitled How to Treat a Lady, but it grew to be about so much more. That same respect that boys will accord a young lady begins very early and stretches across age and gender. If you’re interested in hearing more about Growing Respect, be sure to come back on Thursday.
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10 comments:
We didn't set out to do this, but our son has learned to be discerning about what he reads and watches. I think that videos and materials from Answers in Genesis were helpful in that, too. The lessons in critical thinking can apply to many aspects of life.
Your book sounds so insightful for families of all sizes. :O)
I'm definitely interested in the next installment!
You know, I had never really thought about this. Growing up, there was more "could" and "couldn't" and less "should(n't)" when it came to television. I never really considered how it would affect what I watch now and how it affects what I let Sweet'ums watch. Something for me to ponder.
The word "discern" has so much weight, especially in today's world of 24/7 easy access media. Good for you for addressing it! Be back on Thursday :)
Wonderful wisdom, dear friend.
Much needed in this day and age. I have found that my boys--though sometimes they resist--really want this kind of direction. Children do need to be led.
As for reading, I have one who is a natural and one who is not so much. But over the years I have found persistence and good stories have won the little guy over. books on tape are good too.
With every preview you give us I want more and more to read your book.
Hey Laura,
I wanted to tell you that I'm going to write a post about your book on Friday this week. Hope that's okay? Just wanted to give you a head's up. I will link over here and to your book's page on Amazon.
Write away, Michelle -- and thanks a bunch!!
I have to get a copy of your book, Laura! It sounds so full of great wisdom. Oh, and maybe we can set up a phone call time next week? Now that the kids are back in school, I'd love to talk to you. Email me and let me know what might work for you. ;0)
Let's remember to talk about when I can interview you on my blog!
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